Syllabus: MAT 211 Calculus III Vector Calculus. Fall 2012.

This course begins with a discussion of the geometry of two- and three-dimensional space, vectors, basic linear algebra, and quadric surfaces (surfaces defined by a 2nd-degree polynomial e.g. spheres, ellipsoids, hyperboloids, etc.). Then we will extend the scope of calculus so that it covers vector-valued functions and functions of two and three variables, solve maximum and minimum problems on curves and surfaces and two- and three-dimensional regions, and work out integrals over two- and three-dimensional domains. Finally we will apply these ideas and the fundamental theorem of calculus to prove the great theorems of vector calculus: Green's Theorem, Stokes's Theorem, and Gauss' Theorem (a.k.a the Divergence Theorem) and we will strive mightily to understand what these theorems say about the physical world.

Prerequisites

Calculus II. Calculus II focuses primarily on integration, applications of integration, and sequences and series. We'll use integration and its applications.

Learning outcomes

See the "Objectives" listed in the MAT 211 Sample Syllabus http://http://www.csudh.edu/math/syllabi/MAT211DeptSyllabus.html on the math department website.

Course requirements, grading, due dates

I base grades on homework, tests, and a final exam, but fuzzy things like class participation also play a role because I often give the benefit of the doubt to people who have worked hard and contributed to class discussions. Homework gets the least credit but it is of course the most important thing because learning math takes a lot of practice!

Homework   15% of grade
3 Tests  50% of grade total (16 2/3% each)
Final exam  35% of grade

I will post most homework assignments with due dates online on the WeBWorK web-based homework system but I will assign some paper-and-pencil homeworks too. I will post paper-and-pencil assignments and tests on the course calendar . Please check WeBWorK and the course calendar frequently for updates and new assignments.

Assignments and tests are due on the due date. I don't plan to give make up tests or grade assignments that come in late.

I rarely take attendance, but class participation is important. Students who are serious don't skip classes.

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism

The math department does not tolerate cheating. Students are free to collaborate and share ideas and methods, but work that you turn in with your name on it must be your own. The university's official policy is spelled out in its statement on Academic Integrity and Plagiarism in the University Catalog.

Students with disabilities

Students with disabilities have a legal right to reasonable accomodations. For assistance please contact me and our Disabled Student Services office.